The First World War was a global conflict centred on Europe that took place in the middle of the 19th century. It involved most of the world's great powers, pitting the Aquitanian Republic, its successor the Aquitanian Empire, and its allies and client states, against a series of coalitions formed to oppose them. These alliances both reorganized and expanded as more nations entered the war. Ultimately more than 70 million men were mobilised in what was one of the largest wars in history, and the horrendously high casualty rates paved the way for various political changes, such as revolutions in many of the nations involved.

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Outbreak

The Aquitanian Revolution of 1849 resulted, three years later, in the deposition and execution of Queen Philippa IV. Prior to her death, her relatives and allies among other European monarchies had pledged their support for her, as had many provincial towns and garrisons. Ironically, it was a Lyonnaise invasion from the north, intending to restore the queen to her throne, which provoked the National Assembly into having her killed.

As news of her death spread, outrage followed. Within weeks Spain, Lyonesse, Albion, Norway, Saxony, Milan, Naples, Africa, Bohemia and Romania had all declared war on the First Aquitanian Republic and were preparing their armies to invade.

However, by the end of 1853, Aquitaine had conscripted hundreds of thousands of men and used them to repel the first wave of invasions, as well as crushing the monarchist rebellions that had flared up all over the country. The war was set to last for a very long time indeed.